AMA (NSW): ‘No Mask – Stay Home’

AMA (NSW) is encouraging people of Greater Sydney not to burden GPs by seeking mask exemption certificates, telling them to stay home instead.    

“I recognise the frustration that prompted Minister Hazzard and the NSW Police to seek a formal mask exemption process. However, requiring people to seek medical certification for mask exemptions will significantly impact medical practices and put people at unnecessary risk of community transmission at this critical time,” said AMA (NSW) President, Dr Danielle McMullen.    

“The clear and simple message to people is stay home. Every time you go outside, you put yourself at risk.    

“Wearing a mask helps reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus, but in some circumstances, people may be exempt from wearing a mask. The mask exemption categories are very limited.    

“If you absolutely require a medical certificate for a mask exemption, please call and arrange a telehealth consult.    

“If you are unable to arrange a telehealth consult and you must attend a medical practice, you may be required to wait outside of the clinic for your own safety and the safety of those around you.    

“Mask use is not only about protecting others from your own respiratory droplets – masks offer some protection to you as well.     “Don’t assume that because you have a mask exemption, that you have an entitlement to service.    

“Businesses have to make their own risk assessment when opening their doors to patrons.    

“This also applies to medical practices. AMA (NSW) supports all medical practitioners and practices promoting mask-wearing for the safety of the public, and more immediately, the safety of healthcare workers, administrative staff and patients.    

“In cases where urgent face to face care is not needed, medical practices may ask patients to defer their appointment or arrange a telehealth consultation,” Dr McMullen said.   

Andrea Cornish – 0419 402 955